York snooker players will be putting their hands in their pockets this weekend to help raise money for needy children.

The Cueball Club in James Street is joining clubs around the country as part of Sport Relief's 'Pay to Play' campaign and this Saturday and Sunday players will be paying an extra 50p an hour for their games.

Said Cueball Club proprietor Gary Penrose: "It is a great chance for everyone to come down and get involved in the activities.

"We hope to see all our regulars and maybe some people who have always wanted to have a go at playing snooker but never tried. We want to raise as much money as we can for the kids."

The club that raises most money in the country will win a visit from a top professional player.

Sport Relief is a joint venture between BBC Sport and Comic Relief and is backed by World Snooker, the governing body for professional snooker. All the money raised will go towards helping children and young people in need.

For more information on how you can become involved call Penrose at the Cueball Club on York (01904) 415181.

Updated: 11:39 Thursday, May 09, 2002